I like to split the class up into teams, we may play medical terminology games, or anatomy. If I'm doing special procedures, I'll hand out certain procedures to different teams and they have to describe what that procedure is, why they are doing it and how is it done.
I ask for the students to read the slides along with the instructor or go around the room and let them read each slide one by one. This helps them get involved and engaged. "The more you read and write, the more you learn."
I keep the students engaged with interacting with them while they are doing any type of hands on tasks. It keeps them motivated and interested while learning. I change assignments around to prevent them getting bored or too comfortable which keeps them challenged.
I keep the students engaged with interacting with them while they are doing any type of hands on tasks. It keeps them motivated and interested while learning. I change assignments around to prevent them getting bored or too comfortable which keeps them challenged.
I bring in real-world examples to assist in my teaching, such as news articles or experiences I have encountered.
Based on my experience, case studies keep students engaged and help them better understand the application of academic concepts in the real world.
Laura,
I use case studies in my classes a lot as well. They really do get the students involved don't they. Makes the class sessions fun while a lot of learning is occurring.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I start my lecturers with case studies and then ask the students to voice their opinions of the court holding. I call one student and then all the student add to the conversation. After they understand the law applied I have them read their own case study. When I think that they understand the concepts I conduct a Mock Trial. I really enjoy the interaction and competition.
Shirley,
Great strategies! You are offering variety and change of pace both of which are critical in keeping students engaged. Thanks for sharing these ideas with us.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Ali,
Good way to build a connection between the course content and application. Through their studies they will see the quotes or questions they need to bring to the class for further discussion. This shows them relevancy and value to what is being taught.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I keep my students engaged by never lecturing for more than 20 minutes. I like to incorporate the use of the classroom response system of clickers. I add a question into my lecture every 5-8 slides and then have the students respond using the clickers. It helps keep the students focused and also helps them see if they know the content as well as their colleagues. I also use the one minute paper. After a lecture I give each one a 3/5 card and have them write for one minute either on what was the most important thing they just learned or from the material that was just covered, was there something they did not understand. I also use think, pair, share where the students will be asked to summarize a topic for the person next to them. I then have the students reverse the roles and the other student will summarize a different topic.
To keep my students engaged in the subject matter, I have them participate. For example, have them discuss information with a group or do a "hands-on" project. This way the student is participating in their learning experience.
Starting the class discussion with an exciting, stimulating opening statement or question that captivates the student's attention sets the tone for the class lecture or demonstration to come.
Keep discussions to 15 minutes or so to allow student to assimilate information delivered and follow with a question answer session or written assignment to further enhance understanding of subject matter just delivered.
Assign small group activities to foster interaction by assigning group projects regarding subject matter just delivered.
Encourage class participation by engaging students to share their thoughts, questions or concerns to ensure clarity of understanding of information discussed.
Make my students to participate more in class by giving them an assignment that they have to come prepared to speak about. For example, you might ask them to bring a quote from the assigned reading which they especially related to, was inspiring or enlightening. Or you might ask them to bring a quote of a passage that they did not understand.
Sherrie,
Good strategy. This will keep the students engaged as you know plus you will be able to keep their focus.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I really don't lecture for more than 20 minutes at a time. These lectures need to be sprinkled with a little "let's all stand up" activities. Moving around keeps the students focused on the subject at hand.
Make them a part of the lecture. Give them real world questions and scenarios, and case studies. Create small group projects and have them report back to the class on certain topics. Have them guide the lecture through active participation.
i ask questions, ask them to participate and tell me stories of their own. I correct their grammer and sometimes the students help!. I initially thought it would offend the students, but when I mention what I do in the beginning of the 1st class, the students seemed to be ok wtih this. I have never had a problem, I aks students to come up with topics that we could debate. or I read them medical situations that have occurred and ask them their opinions.
Constant monitoring and assistance as well as step by step guidance when and where needed. Also critique, both positive and negative, keeps them engaged and heading in the right direction.
When teaching theoretical concepts, illustrating them with examples from the current occupations of my students helps them to understand. It lessens frustration; students are encouraged and keep listening.